1975: Directors of the existing SRAs began meeting in what
would soon become SRANI, or Special Recreation Associations
of Northern Illinois. In 1978, this agency expanded to meet
the growing educational needs of the therapeutic recreation
professionals working in community-based settings or SRAs.
SRANI still exists today, and you can learn more at
www.specialrecreation.org.
Additionally, in 1975 park districts established new legislation
under Section 5-8 of the Park District Code to create a special
recreation tax levy for cooperatives. These funds may only be
legally accessed through the participation in a joint agreement.
1977: Programs for individuals with disabilities flourished,
bringing new services to a population that had never before
had quality access to community recreation. Illinois SRAs
led the country in therapeutic recreation services and were
recognized with many National Gold Medal Awards from
the American Academy for Park & Recreation Administration
(AAPRA) and the National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA).
1978: NSSRA purchased its first 15 passenger van for
transportation services, marking the beginning of a service that
still exists today.
Sadly, Executive Director Stephen R. Keay passed away in
1978, and the field lost a leader and an advocate. Referencing
Keay, NSSRA's 1978 Fall Program Guide stated, "He was never
one to sit still, and continually researched new avenues of
development in order to better serve the special populations
within our service area. He stayed active at local, state and
natioonal levels in affairs and legislation regarding individuals
with disabilities."
Following Keay's death, Michael Muldoon was hired as
NSSRA's next Executive Director.
1980: NSSRA won the prestigious Gold Medal Award
in 1980, presented by the American Academy for Park &
Recreation Administration (AAPRA) and the National Recreation
& Park Association (NRPA).
Want more?
Stay tuned for the Spring Guide in January, when we'll look back at 1981 - 1990.
In the meantime, do you have a story or memory to share with us?
We want to hear it! Send your stories, memories AND photos to [email protected].
You might just see them in one of our program guides, on our website or on social media!
#nssraturns50 #happybirthdaynssra #cheersto50years
www.nssra.org/happybirthday
15